Original Medicine Earth-Based Intensive Immersion Retreat - July 21 to 27, 2026

Braided Wisdom's Original Medicine Earth-Based Intensive Immersion Retreat 

with Carol Cano, Janet Roos, Carmen Alvarez, Jonathan Relucio & Sarwang Parikh

Mindful Movement Teacher: Kimber Simpkins-Nuccio

Teaching Assistants: Regent Brown & Rebekah Eppley

Explore our website for full retreat details.

Tuesday, July 21 - Monday, July 27, 2026 (6 nights In-person)

Arrival Time: 3:00 - 5:00 pm PT

Departure Time: 11:00 am PT

Location: Spirit Camp Retreat Center on the unceded land of the Central Pomo speaking people (Little River, Mendocino County, California) 

Retreat Description

Since 2014, we’ve continued to offer our Original Medicine program guiding hundreds of participants towards personal healing through deepening connection with nature as nature itself and cultivating relationships with our beloved ancestors and the Earth. We are thrilled to host the Original Medicine Residential Retreat welcoming participants of all backgrounds to experience the very essence of this unique yearlong healing crucible mindfully distilled into an immersive in-person land experience. 

Braiding together the teachings of the Buddha and Indigenous wisdom co-creates a foundation of truth, trust, and love. During this intensive retreat, we will explore ways of coming into the core of who we are, our own Original Medicine, and enhance our personal growth and purpose with nature as our teacher. Held by the magic of the Redwood forest, we will learn and experience contemplative practices that include mindfulness meditation, earth walks, and embodied mindfulness movement. Participants will experience the depth and essence of Braided Wisdom’s one of a kind yearlong healing program refined intentionally into an intensive, restorative, and heart-opening experience that will deepen and widen the nature of who we are… not separate from nature itself. 

We welcome all to consider registering, especially those who have been unable to commit to a yearlong journey. 

For more information about the retreat, please view the Original Medicine Earth-Based Intensive Immersion Retreat Information Packet.

As part of your registration, it is important for you to complete the Original Medicine Earth-Based Intensive Immersion Retreat Participant Information Form 2026.

About Our Community-Centered Contribution Model

For this retreat, we’re offering a new Community-Centered Contribution Model shaped by the times we’re living in and the values we hold together. Alongside a small Benefactor tier that helps root the gathering, the Spiritual Friend and Community Builder tiers are offered as an invitation into shared stewardship. These rates reflect a collective commitment to tending the land, the food, the space, the teachings, and the care that make this retreat possible, and to sharing those costs together during a season when many are feeling impacted by the current realities. With only four Benefactor spaces available and all spots offered on a first-come, first-served basis, we encourage early registration for those who feel called. We offer this approach in the spirit of sacred reciprocity, trust, and honoring that community is something we build together through intention, presence, responsibility, and care for one another and the Beloved Earth that holds us.

Benefactor Tier - $2,400

The Benefactor Tier provides an opportunity for individuals with financial means to support access for those with limited resources, enabling broader participation and inclusivity.

Participants in this tier are offered more private accommodations such as a private cabin or tent cabin space. The private cabins have lighting, heating and outlets, and the tent cabins have an electric blanket, overhead lighting, and outlet for phones. They all come with cozy cotton sheets, lux warm linens, plus comfy pillows and mattresses. There is a shared communal bathhouse with toilets, sinks and plenty of hot water for showers. No accommodations have private baths.

This tier is limited to three spaces, with sleeping places in either two private queen bed cabins or one king bed tent cabin. These are received on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Private Water Tower Cabin - Queen Bed - SOLD OUT

  • Perfect for a private cozy room with a view, a queen bed and desk. Newly renovated with oakwood floors and redwood furnishings. Located on the second story of a converted water tower with stairs.
• Private Queen's Comb Cabin - Queen Bed - SOLD OUT
  • Perfect for a private cozy room with a queen bed and desk. Newly renovated with oakwood floors and redwood furnishings.
  • One spot available.

• Private Tent Cabin - King Bed

  • Perfect for a private room with a king bed and personal chair to relax.
  • One spot available.

Spiritual Friend Tier - $1,450

The Spiritual Friend Tier nurtures the sustainability of our retreat and is designed for individuals who are employed and able to comfortably support their financial well-being while contributing to our shared mission.

This tier invites participants into a shared, community-centered experience of the retreat. Those choosing this tier share a bunkhouse, cabin, or tent cabin with others, or bring their own tent for camping. This tier reflects a spirit of togetherness and mutual care, where living more closely and simply supports the weaving of deeper connection among participants, with the land, and with the rhythms of communal life.

All shared cabins have lighting, heating and outlets. They come with cozy cotton sheets, lux warm linens, plus comfy pillows and mattresses. There is a shared communal bathhouse with toilets, sinks and plenty of hot water for showers. No accommodations have private baths.

• Shared Female Identified Deer Haven Cabin - Queen Bed - SOLD OUT

  • Shared cabin with three people. There are two queen beds, one twin bed, a desk, and vaulted ceilings with skylights.
• Shared Male Identified Raven Roost Cabin - Queen Bed 
  • Shared cabin with four people. There are two queen beds, two twin beds, and vaulted ceilings with skylights. 
  • One spot available.
• Shared Female Identified Tent Cabin - Twin Bed 
  • Shared tent cabin with one other person. There are two twin beds, and chairs for relaxing.
  • One spot available

• Shared Female Identified Bunkhouse
  • The largest and most spacious cabin shared with nine people. Includes two twin bunkbeds and five twin beds for a communal experience. Newly renovated with oakwood floors and redwood furnishings. 
  • Three spots available

• Meadow Camping - Bring Your Own Tent

  • Sleep among the Redwood Trees in the Sunset Meadow in your own private tent. Bring your gear and bedding with you.

  • One spot available

Community Builder Tier - $1,250

The Community Builder Tier offers a reduced rate for those facing moderate financial constraints or barriers. For example, if you are living on a fixed income, are a senior, a full-time student, or temporarily unemployed, this tier provides support to ensure your sustainability during these times.

This tier invites participants into a shared, community-centered experience of the retreat. Those choosing this tier share a bunkhouse or cabin space with others, or may bring their own camping tent or van. This tier reflects a spirit of togetherness and mutual care, where living more closely and simply supports the weaving of deeper connection among participants, with the land, and with the rhythms of communal life.

All shared cabins have lighting, heating and outlets. They come with cozy cotton sheets, lux warm linens, plus comfy pillows and mattresses. There is a shared communal bathhouse with toilets, sinks and plenty of hot water for showers. No accommodations have private baths.

• Shared Nonbinary Identified Tent Cabin - Twin Bed

  • Shared tent cabin with three people. There are three twin beds. 
  • Three spots available.

• Shared Female Identified Deer Haven Cabin - Twin Bed - SOLD OUT

  • Shared cabin with three people. There are two queen beds, one twin bed, a desk, and vaulted ceilings with skylights. 

• Shared Male Identified Raven Roost Cabin - Twin Bed

  • Shared cabin with four people. There are two queen beds, two twin beds, and vaulted ceilings with skylights. 
  • Two spots available.

• Shared Female Identified Bunkhouse
  • The largest and most spacious cabin shared with nine people. Includes two twin bunkbeds and five twin beds for a communal experience. Newly renovated with oakwood floors and redwood furnishings.
  • Six spots available.

• Meadow Camping - Bring Your Own Tent - SOLD OUT

  • Sleep among the Redwood Trees in the Sunset Meadow in your own private tent. Bring your gear and bedding with you.

• Van Camping - Bring Your Own Vehicle

  • Sleep in your private vehicle next to the Redwood Trees in the parking lot near the communal bathroom. Bring your gear and bedding with you.

  • Two spots available

Financial Support Self-Reflection

The Spiritual Friend and Community Builder Tiers offer the option to support both personal sustainability and shared care for the program. Those experiencing moderate financial constraints—such as living on a fixed income, being a senior, a full-time student, or temporarily unemployed—are invited to select the Community Builder Tier. Those who are employed and able to comfortably support their financial well-being are encouraged to choose the Spiritual Friend Tier, helping sustain the program and extend access to others.

We invite you to choose the contribution level that feels most aligned with your current circumstances, trusting your discernment and honoring our collective commitment to care, reciprocity, and community.

This retreat offers a limited number of spots available for those experiencing financial constraints or barriers. If you are navigating any challenging circumstances, you are welcome to reach out to info@braidedwisdom.org. 

Braided Wisdom Cancellation Policy

We understand life happens and plans can change, and we hold that with compassion. 

If you are unable to make it:

• 60 days before the retreat: 100% refund of the contribution.
• 30 days before the retreat: 50% refund of the contribution.
• 14 days before the retreat: 25% refund of the contribution.

As you know, there needs to be advance notice to make all the necessary arrangements for someone to take your place. This greatly impacts our planning and ability to cover costs. We appreciate your cooperation and support.

***For people who cancel, please consider the practice of sacred reciprocity by donating your contribution. Braided Wisdom is an IRS approved tax-exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. All donations are tax deductible as allowed by law. Our EIN is 85-0813884.***

About the Teachers

Carol Cano, M.A.

Lead Teacher

Carol Cano, M.A., began her practice over 35 years ago at Wat Kow Tahm in Thailand and has actively engaged in building communities and teaching Dharma internationally.  She is a teacher at Spirit Rock Meditation Center.  She is a core teacher and a former board member of East Bay Meditation Center. Carol co-founded Philippine Insight Meditation Community in the Philippines.

Her unique teachings are deeply grounded in Basque, Native American and Buddhist influences that braid the Dharma along with Indigenous wisdom and earth-based practices. Her psychology background gives her a unique view into the human condition, which helps her hold community in a compassionate and confident manner.  Carol reminds us to keep grounded in our hearts as we uphold spiritual ideals and encourages us to remain balanced within the demands of modern life. To find out more about Carol, please visit www.carolcano.com.

Janet E. Roos

Teacher

Janet E. Roos, PMP, CMT-P, (she/her) has been recognized as an innovator in Business Technology for over 30 years. She has worked coast-to-coast as a highly respected “In-House” and “Consultant” leader for world renown companies. Janet completed the UCLA Mindfulness Certified Training Program and is a certified member of the International Mindfulness Teacher’s Association. She is a co-teacher for Braided Wisdom's Original Medicine Yearlong Program. Janet is a four time “Hall Of Famer” recognized elite athlete who understands the inherent value of employing Mindfulness Practices for competition, sports preparedness, and training. She has sustained a personal meditation practice for over a decade and has attended numerous training and silent retreats. Janet has volunteered with Non-Profit Organizations and currently serves on two non-profit boards. 

Carmen Alvarez

Teacher

Carmen (she/her/ella) is from the Purepecha lands in Michoacan Mexico. Carmen has a master’s degree in Leadership which she has braided beautifully with her Toltec, Purepecha, and her Mindfulness Training Practices providing holistic approaches to healing and personal development. She received her Certification as a Mindfulness Teacher from the Braided Wisdom Leadership Training Program in 2022. She also has completed two Indigenous Master programs, Nahualismo and Curanderismo. Carmen is a practitioner of Mexican Indigenous practices and she is also part of a Lakota centered community. Coaching and training are her passions as she thrives when working with others. Her belief is that we must heal ourselves and by doing so we heal our family, our ancestors, and our communities. Carmen practices and guides mindfulness meditations, leadership coaching, ancestral healing, trauma-based healing, limpias, manifestations, planting dreams, among many other healing techniques. Her intention is for everyone to find their passion and live their best life.

Jonathan Relucio

Teacher

For a decade, Jonathan Relucio (he/him/siya) was a Senior Trainer for Niroga Institute, teacher trauma-informed yoga, meditation, and mindfulness in urban schools, mental health clinics and juvenile detention centers. Currently, he teaches at Spirit Rock Meditation Center and East Bay Meditation Center. Jonathan also facilitates transformation in social justice movements as a Trainer for Rockwood Leadership Insitute; integrates mindfulness with restorative circles for healing and racial equity as co-founder of AllThriveEd.org; and serves on the Healing Advisory council for Filipino Advocates for Justice.

With over 20 years of experience in social services, community organizing, training, and leadership development, Jonathan values yoga, dharma, meditation, Indigenous medicine, martial arts, dance, and DJing as practices for liberation that heal us from the impace of oppressive systems.

Sarwang Parikh

Teacher

Sarwang Parikh LMFT (he/they) is a psychotherapist and meditation teacher based on unceded Ohlone land in Richmond, CA. He was born into a devotional Indian lineage from an immigrant, working-class family. They have been practicing and studying the Dharma path for over 20 years, primarily through the doors of Vedic yoga and the Theravada Buddhist lineage. He has completed various teaching and study programs in yoga and Buddhist meditation including East Bay Meditation Center's 2-year Spiritual Teacher Leader program. Sarwang teaches at East Bay Meditation Center, Inward Bound Mindfulness Education and in other community organizations. They also serve on the board of Buddhist Peace Fellowship. Sarwang loves playing his handpan, being immersed in sci-fi or getting free on a dance floor. You can find out more about Sarwang at www.heartroottherapy.com.

Kimber Simpkins-Nuccio

Mindful Movement Teacher

Kimber Simpkins-Nuccio (she/they) is a white, cis, queer mom and writer who taught yoga and mindfulness in the San Francisco Bay area for more than twenty years, bringing a body love and social justice perspective to her teaching and learning. She has completed the Dedicated Practitioner’s Program at Spirit Rock, teacher training at the Mindfulness Training Institute, racial justice facilitation training with Holistic Resistance, the Spiritual Teacher and Leadership Program at EBMC, Mindfulness Mentor Training with Banyan and is a visiting teacher at Spirit Rock, EBMC, New York Insight, and more recently, Insight Santa Cruz. She is currently learning the Kwan Yin dharmas in the 2 year Dharmapala training and is a member of the 2024 cohort of Braided Wisdom’s Original Medicine program. As a practitioner, Kimber values the intersection of social justice, self-knowledge, and decreased reactivity within Buddhist practice and appreciates how these skills help us increase our ability to connect deeply. Undermining white supremacy internally and externally is a core component of her work. She has witnessed first hand how the practice of mindfulness has brought more compassion and joy to her relationships and life.

Regent Brown

Teaching Assistant

Regent Brown, is a Black and Native American, disabled, gender expansive woman, who has been practicing contemplative practices in and out the workplace for almost 20 years. Through mindfulness training in work environments, Regent has expanded both personal and professional practice spaces weaving together ancestral healing training and mindfulness to support thriving communities. As a two time cancer survivor, Regent supports community and clients as a coach, circle keeper, trainer, healer, facilitator, and participant in interdependent wellness practices. Regent is part of a bountiful group of BIPOC meditation teachers working to weave mindfulness practices through their liberatory work, relationships, and communities. To balance a busy work life, Regent continues to manifest joy through activities like karaoke, time in nature, traveling to photograph sunsets, gardening, playing with cats and discovering small parks while walking their aging Corgi mix pup, Perkelsnertz.

Rebekah Eppley

Teaching Assistant

Rebekah Eppley (she/they) worked as a nonprofit fundraiser for the San Francisco Education Fund from 1993-1995 and the Institute on Aging from 1995-2006. She has a background in creative writing and was a librarian at Oakland Public Library for many years where she organized programs and workshops in partnership with local community members and organizations. She currently serves on East Bay Meditation Center’s (EBMC) Programming Committee and volunteers and teaches with EBMC’s Maha Sangha. She has completed EBMC’s White and Awakening in Sangha and EBMC’s Spiritual Teacher and Leadership program. She is currently part of Spirit Rock’s Community Dharma Leaders Training.

Rebekah was a participant in Braided Wisdom’s Original Medicine Yearlong Program and the Original Medicine In-Depth Program and is a co-facilitator of the Braided Wisdom Plantain Pod.

This program registration is for Original Medicine Earth-Based Intensive Immersion Retreat on July 21 to 27, 2026. 

For further discussion please reach out to info@braidedwisdom.org.